Tourists banned and 164 dead following Indian Monsoon

A devastating monsoon flood has hit Kerala killing more than 164 people.

A red alert has been issued across India’s southern state as more rain is expected to fall this week and Munnar, a popular tourist destination has been closed to all traffic.

The death toll is expected to rise as rescuers continue to search through the debris and more than 150,000 people have been left without homes. Military troops have been sent to the area to help search for survivors, helicopters and lifeboats will be taking people to safety.

Public transport links, including railways and roads have been cut off by the floods with many services halted. Services will not resume until the water level has lowered and the railways and roads are confirmed to be back in a suitable condition.

Kochi International Airport has been closed and is not expected to reopen until August 26th 2018 and Cochin Airport has been shut due to water damage and will reopen on Saturday.

Kerala has 14 districts in total with some banning tourists due to safety concerns.

Those who are due to travel to the area are being advised to check travel updates before heading to the airport. Many may wish to make alternative arrangements or cancel their holiday and should check their travel insurance for either Force Majeure Cover, Natural Disaster Cover or cancellation for any cause beyond your reasonable control.

Over the next couple of days disaster response teams plan to put temporary bridges in place and start to clear the main roads to allow access for rescue teams and emergency supplies.

The monsoon floods are the worst in almost a century and the government is warning locals to not ignore evacuation orders as risks of landslides and collapsing infrastructure are still high.

Florida’s hurricane season and Australia’s bushfire season are approaching so holidaymakers are advised to make sure they are buying a suitable travel insurance policy to cover them in the event of Force Majeure.